Hindu mythology is vast and filled with divine tales of gods, goddesses, and their celestial offspring.
When we think of the divine family of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, we often remember their sons Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan (Kartikeya). However, very few are aware of their lesser-known daughter, Ashoka Sundari. Unlike her famous siblings, Ashoka Sundari’s story remains hidden in the pages of ancient texts, often overlooked in mainstream mythology.
What’s her birth story?
The story of Ashoka Sundari's birth is mentioned in the Padma Purana. According to mythology, Goddess Parvati, while spending time on Mount Kailash, felt lonely and longed for a daughter. She visited the wish-fulfilling Kalpavriksha tree and expressed her desire for a child. The divine tree granted her wish, and thus, Ashoka Sundari was born. Her presence brought immense joy to Parvati; hence, she was named Ashoka Sundari (where Ashoka means "remover of sorrow"). She was also blessed to marry Nahusha as per destiny. Nahusha would be equal to Lord Indra, the king of heaven.
What is her life story, and how did she marry Nausha?
Although her name is not widely known, Ashoka Sundari is believed to play an important role in Hindu mythology.
Ashokasundari, destined to marry Nahusha, was pursued by the demon Hunda, who attempted to deceive her by disguising himself as a widow. Realizing his treachery, she cursed him to be slain by Nahusha and escaped to Mount Kailash.
To alter his fate, Hunda kidnapped the infant Nahusha, but a kind maid rescued the child and placed him under Sage Vashistha’s care. Nahusha grew into a powerful prince and learned of his destiny to defeat Hunda.
Years later, Hunda abducted Ashokasundari again, falsely claiming Nahusha was dead. A Kinnara couple reassured her of Nahusha’s survival and prophesied she would bear a mighty son, Yayati, and a hundred daughters. Eventually, Nahusha confronted Hunda in a fierce battle, vanquished him, and rescued Ashokasundari, fulfilling their divine destiny.
In Indra’s absence, Nahusha was temporarily made the ruler of heaven, marking a pivotal moment in celestial history.
Why isn't she recognized more?
Ashoka Sundari, also known as Balika Taaruni or Maha Lalitha Tripura Sundari, is ancient yet often overlooked. She is believed to reside at the central bindu of the Sri Chakra or Sri Yantra and is regarded as the most complete or saguna roopam form of Shakti to manifest. Ashoka Sundari is worshipped as Bala Tripura Sundari, the daughter of the Mother Goddess Tripura Sundari in Southern states. However, her mention in the scriptures is scarce, and many texts, including the Shiva Purana, do not reference her.
In fact, the Shiva Purana only acknowledges Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan (Karthikeya) as the children of Shiva and Parvati. Depictions of Ashoka Sundari are rare in Hindu scriptures and artwork, but when she is represented, she is often portrayed as a beautiful young goddess, sometimes seen standing near her mother, Goddess Parvati.
Ashoka Sundari is revered in some regions of India, particularly in Gujarat and parts of Odisha. She is considered a divine manifestation of Goddess Parvati and is associated with beauty, strength, and protection. Devotees believe she relieves sorrow and blesses women with marital bliss, much like Goddess Gauri or Sita.
Many of us may not be aware of Ashoka Sundari's story that is presented in Hindu mythology. Although she is not as prominent as her brothers; her story holds deep spiritual meaning highlighting the blessings of a sorrow-free life.
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